Samsung's $100 Price Hikes: Relief It Wasn't Worse
Samsung's latest foldable and flagship phones have increased by $100, but observers express relief that the hike isn't larger, given the AI bubble's impact on component prices and an industry-wide trend of rising costs.
Samsung has implemented a $100 price increase across its newest foldable smartphones and flagship models. While unwelcome, many in the industry feel relief that the increase is not more substantial, considering rumors and analyst forecasts.
Google is expected to add at least $100 to the price of its upcoming Pixel handsets. For those who can afford it, this may not be a disaster, especially if spread over a 12- or 24-month contract. Meanwhile, Apple CEO Tim Cook has already indicated the company cannot maintain current pricing, having raised prices on most product lines. Similar increases are anticipated for new iPhones launching this fall. A theory suggests Apple might stagger the iPhone 18 launch, debuting the pricier Pro models and the foldable iPhone Fold first, with the standard iPhone 18 arriving after the holiday season.
The price hikes extend beyond smartphones. In May 2026, Valve discontinued the entry-level Steam Deck priced at $399, while mid-range and premium models rose from $549 and $649 to $789 and $949. According to a BoilingSteam report, sales of the handheld dropped by 82% following the increases. A 9to5Mac poll found 38% of respondents plan to hold onto their current devices longer. Industry analysts at IDC predict a significant sales decline for the remainder of the year and into 2027, alongside a potential record low for the smartphone sector due to rising memory costs.
While a $100 price hike is not ideal, given the broader industry trends, it could have been much worse. The monthly cost of these devices, already out of reach for some, is now even more prohibitive.
